The Story of the Other Wise Man by Henry Van Dyke: A Timeless Tale of Quiet Faith and Giving

If you love classic Christmas stories that stir the heart without feeling overdone, The Story of the Other Wise Man is a beautiful hidden gem worth discovering. First published in 1895, this short novella by Henry Van Dyke offers a moving twist on the familiar Nativity story—one that emphasizes compassion, sacrifice, and the quiet strength of a faithful heart. Though not as widely known as A Christmas Carol or other holiday staples, it carries a message every bit as powerful.

Van Dyke imagines that there was once a fourth wise man, a Persian scholar named Artaban, who sets out to follow the same star as the three Magi. Like them, he plans to bring gifts to the newborn Christ child: a sapphire, a ruby, and a pearl, treasures he has gathered with care. Yet as Artaban travels, he is constantly delayed by encounters with those in need. A dying stranger, a destitute woman with a sick child, a prisoner facing death—all cross his path. Each time, he chooses compassion over haste, giving away the treasures meant for the king in order to save or comfort others.

Because of these detours, Artaban never reaches Bethlehem. He never stands in the stable, never kneels before the manger. But over the decades, as he searches tirelessly for the King, he lives a life of quiet service. And in his old age—poor, worn, and thinking he has failed—he finally understands: in every act of mercy, he has been serving Christ all along. In the story’s powerful closing moment, he hears a voice saying, “Inasmuch as you have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, you have done it unto me.”

What makes this tale stand out is its gentle, reflective tone. Van Dyke doesn’t rely on spectacle or dramatic twists. Instead, he builds a soft, luminous sense of wonder around simple human kindness. Artaban is not a saint—he struggles, doubts, and fears that he’s wasted his life—but his unwavering love gives the story its strength. That emotional honesty makes his final realization even more moving.

Stylistically, the prose is poetic and lyrical without being difficult, filled with rich descriptions of ancient landscapes and the quiet dignity of Artaban’s journey. It’s a brief read—perfect for a single quiet winter evening—but it lingers long after the last page, leaving you with that unmistakable glow of holiday peace.

In a season that can sometimes feel rushed and commercial, The Story of the Other Wise Man offers a gentle pause. It reminds us that the greatest gifts we can give may not be wrapped or glittering, but offered through small, selfless acts of love. If you want to add a deeper, more spiritual note to your Christmas reading this year, this little book is a perfect place to start. It may not be famous, but its message is unforgettable.